When you're preparing to teach in a blended environment, be mindful of the mantra, "Remote First". Students accessing your class remotely can ONLY interact with you through their 9.7" or 11" screen. If you focus your primary attention on your in-person learners they will suffer. Here are a few quick tips and tricks to help you utilize Webex in a blended classroom.
Also, be sure to follow district policy anytime you interact with students. You can view the policy at: https://area66.westside66.org/westside-video-procedures/
Watch this quick video from Dr. Greg Betts. He'll highlight and demonstrate tips and tricks for teaching in a blended classroom.
Do
✅Set your computer up in front of you, as close as possible
✅ Keep the camera on you and not other students in your class
✅ Stay in front of the computer at all times
✅Use wired headphones
✅Make sure there is adequate lighting on you
✅ Keep your camera lense clean by wiping it with a microfiber cloth before starting
✅ Practice, practice, practice! Find a partner and practice going through the setup and a sample lesson
Don't
⛔️ Turn the camera around to face the class
⛔️ When AirPlaying to the class, MUTE your computer to avoid feedback.
⛔️ Call out personal information to the in-person learners when remote learners are live (i.e., "Johnny, your IEP is after school today, don't forget!")
Do
✅RECORD ALL MEETINGS that you have with students
✅Use short, 5 minute pre-recorded videos where appropriate
✅Utilize Webex to share content. This include using the DIGITAL white board and any PowerPoint or Keynote files you want to display
✅Elementary teachers: Share your iPad via Webex and use ExplainEverything as a digital teaching tool
✅AirPlay your Webex session on the AppleTV for in-person learners
✅Think of ways to engage remote learners who don't have a turn and talk partner
✅Utilize the Webex chatroom, breakout rooms (coming Sept. 2020) or Webex Teams where appropriate to interact
✅Consider having ALL students join the Webex session during class. This will allow in-person learners to interact with at home learners and view shared content. Just don't forget to have the in-person learners mute their mics and speakers when not using headphones
Don't
⛔️ Lecture for 35 minutes. Keep live segments as short as possible
⛔️ Write on the physical white board or SMART board. Remote learners won't be able to see it
⛔️Walk around your classroom and expect the remote learners to see and hear you
⛔️ Call out personal information to the in-person learners when remote learners are live (i.e., "Johnny, your IEP is after school today, don't forget!")
⛔️ Use in-person specific language, such as "Turn and Talk to your elbow partner" without also involving the remote learners